Morgan Geekie's impact on the Bruins evolving lineup
Last summer, the GM of the Boston Bruins, Don Sweeney, pulled off a trade with the New Jersey Devils, swapping Pavel Zacha for Erik Haula. It turned out to be a smart move for both sides.
Zacha exceeded expectations for the Bruins, achieving a career-best performance with 21 goals, 36 assists, and 57 points. His ability to step up when David Krejci was absent made him a key player.
In January, he secured a four-year contract extension, solidifying his role in the 2023-24 Bruins lineup.
Morgan Geekie, a free agent signed from the Seattle Kraken, is expected to offer the same flexibility that Zacha did. Despite Geekie's young NHL career, he's yet to make a breakout impact, and the Bruins hope he can step up in a similar fashion.
Geekie, drafted by the Carolina Hurricanes in 2017 and subsequently picked by the Seattle GM Ron Francis in the 2021 Expansion Draft, swiftly joined the Kraken. He tallied seven goals and 15 assists in his debut season.
The following year, his stats improved to nine goals and 19 assists. However, Seattle chose to part ways due to their deep forward lineup, allowing him to explore free agency.
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The Bruins see potential in Geekie, believing he's capable of more than his current performance suggests.
As the Bruins prepare for training camp, Zacha and Charlie Coyle are the anticipated top centers, following the retirements of Krejci and Bergeron.
Geekie could slot in as the third-line center or even find a role on the second line, either as a winger or center.
Geekie's versatility echoes that of Zacha. While not claiming he's on par with Zacha, there are similarities in their styles. Geekie is likely to earn time on the second power-play unit, and his ability to play multiple positions gives Coach Montgomery the flexibility to adjust the lineup.
With an expected increase in ice time, Geekie aims to flourish and contribute to the team's success.
«I believe that with a more significant role and additional ice time, I can find my groove and develop as a player. My goal is to contribute in the best way possible to help the team,» Geekie expressed.
Considering the Bruins' changing roster dynamics, it's evident that Geekie was offered a substantial role in Boston, a role that aligns with the gaps left by Krejci and Bergeron's departure.
With new signings and returning players, Montgomery has plenty of options for in-game adjustments.
Geekie secured a two-year, $4 million contract with the Bruins, averaging $2 million per year. The Bruins are banking on Geekie's potential to provide significant value. Given Boston's offensive uncertainties, the team relies on their defense and goaltending for stability.
While David Pastrnak leads the offensive charge, the Bruins are in search of additional offensive depth.
Geekie's potential to replicate Zacha's success, combined with extended playing time, could prove to be a shrewd move by Sweeney, renowned for finding hidden gems in free agency.
